With Matthew Stafford officially staying in Los Angeles, the NFL’s quarterback market has shifted dramatically, and a new top target has emerged.
After weeks of speculation about Stafford’s future with the Rams, the veteran quarterback secured a new deal on Friday, committing to at least two more seasons in L.A. With Stafford no longer available, attention has swiftly turned to Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold, who is now regarded as the most sought-after QB in free agency.
Sam Darnold Takes Center Stage in Free Agency
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Darnold has become the most coveted quarterback on the market, as several teams remain desperate for a quality signal-caller.
“Sam Darnold is now the number one quarterback available … All eyes are now on Sam Darnold,” Rapoport reported from the NFL Draft Combine.
While Darnold’s future remains uncertain, his availability has immediately reshaped the quarterback landscape, with multiple teams potentially lining up to make a move for him.
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Could the Vikings Use the Franchise Tag?
Darnold is currently slated to hit free agency, but the Vikings could still apply the franchise tag if they see an opportunity to leverage trade interest from QB-needy teams.
Rapoport noted that if Darnold generates strong interest, the Vikings may not let him walk for free—instead, they could tag him in an effort to gain assets in a potential trade.
Darnold’s 2024 Season: A Career Resurgence
Darnold’s breakout 2024 campaign with the Vikings proved to be the best season of his NFL career. The 27-year-old quarterback:
- Threw for 4,319 yards
- Tossed 35 touchdowns to 12 interceptions
- Earned his first Pro Bowl selection
- Received MVP votes
- Led the Vikings to a 14-3 record, tied for the second-best in the NFC
For much of the season, Darnold silenced doubters who had questioned his ability to be a franchise quarterback. His performance helped the Vikings to one of the best records in the league, and his poise in the pocket won over many in Minnesota.
Playoff Struggles Still Haunt Darnold
Despite his regular-season success, Darnold’s performance in the playoffs remains a major question mark. His struggles in the Vikings’ Wild Card loss to Matthew Stafford’s Rams left a lasting impression, as he failed to rise to the occasion in a win-or-go-home scenario.
Many critics believed that his poor showing in the postseason would diminish his free-agent value, but with limited elite quarterback options available, the market for Darnold remains stronger than ever.
Demand for Darnold Driven by Lack of Elite QBs in the Draft
One key factor fueling interest in Darnold is the overall weakness of this year’s QB draft class. Outside of the top few picks, there is a steep drop-off in available quarterback talent, making an established veteran like Darnold an attractive option for several teams.
With Stafford off the board, teams in need of a starter—or even a bridge quarterback—will likely pursue Darnold aggressively.
Where Could Darnold Land?
With free agency and the trade market heating up, teams that could be potential suitors for Darnold include:
- Washington Commanders – In search of a veteran QB to bridge the gap for a young draft pick.
- Pittsburgh Steelers – Uncertain about Kenny Pickett, they could look for a more proven option.
- New England Patriots – Desperate for stability at quarterback, especially if they don’t take one in the draft.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers – If Baker Mayfield leaves in free agency, they could see Darnold as a replacement.
Darnold’s Second Chance to Prove Himself
Darnold has come a long way from his early struggles with the New York Jets. His 2024 season with the Vikings showcased growth and maturity, but now the question is whether he can secure a long-term home as a franchise quarterback.
As the top quarterback now available, Darnold is set to be one of the biggest storylines of the NFL offseason—whether he returns to Minnesota or finds a fresh start with a new team.
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